Nielsen Library prepares space for Information Commons

(06-04-2008)

Relax back in a comfy chair a hot espresso by your side, open up a laptop and begin your group study session - that is the near future for Adams State College students using the Nielsen Library.

According to Dianne Machado, director of the library, she and Brooke Andrade, instruction/reference librarian, and Paul Mascarenas, reference librarian, have talked about this idea for a couple of years. "Now we have the room," Machado said.

The space for the Information Commons was made available by the de-accessioning the library's collection of government documents. Over the last week the library staff and student employees has have been preparing for the new space and services, moving out shelves of documents to make room.

All departments of government create publications. Since the year 2000, when the government passed the paper reduce act, the documents have been published on-line. Andrade said the government has been digitizing their archive. "It just makes sense to remove the old hard-copies and open up space."

According to Andrade, the Information Commons will become a learning space with student access, reference service and an abundance of technical services in various formats, to "increase learning outside of the classroom."

The Information Commons will include four desktops with a variety of programs including the Adobe Creative Suites, Adams State Associated Students and Faculty members can check out laptops to use in the commons and Jazzman's Cafe will sell concessions including espresso drinks.

Mascarenas researched the latest software programs to include on the computers available and the library staff chose comfortable chairs for the commons.

"Students, faculty, and staff can use up-to-date technology in a comfortable setting," Andrade said. "The Information Commons is different from a traditional computer lab. It will be set up for individuals or groups to study in comfort."

The Information Commons will be located on the second floor of the Nielsen Library. The remodeling was made possible through the new capital fee recently passed by Adams State students. Nielsen Library hours are 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. Mondays through Thursdays; 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Saturdays and 1p.m. until 11 p.m. Sundays. The library is closed for major holidays and shortens hours during college breaks.

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